Langston Hughes: An American Poet

April is Poetry Month and April wouldn't be April without reading and sharing the poems of Langston Hughes. The St. Louis County Library offers many children’s books that present Langston Hughes’ beautiful poetry.

Your first selection might be the Coretta Scott King Award-winning book,

 “My People”, illustrated by Charles R. Smith, Jr. The photographs that accompany this six line poem are so natural, it’s as if the poet had chosen them himself. The simplicity of the poem and the photographed faces of children and adults make this book a wonderful selection for children of all ages, including infants and toddlers.     

Award-winning artist Sean Quall’s new book, “Lullaby (For a Black Mother)”, presents this poem with painted color collage. As you read this book you can hear the musical quality of Langston Hughes’ style and you can imagine a mother rocking her baby to sleep. The illustrations also depict this movement, dance and a mother’s joy.

“Langston Hughes: Poetry for Young People”, illustrated by award-winning artist Benny Andrews, is a personal favorite. The illustrations, biographical notes and annotations create an emotional and informative presentation of the poet and his poetry. “The Negro Speaks of Rivers”, “Aunt Sue’s Stories”, “Hey!” and “Hey! Hey!” are a few of the poems included in this collection.

“Langston Hughes: The Dream Keeper and Other Poems” is a children’s collection of poems published by the poet in 1932. The anniversary edition contains black and white scratchboard illustrations by award-winning artist Brian Pinkney and includes the popular children’s poem,

“April Rain Song”.

Young readers will also enjoy “Langston Hughes: Great American Poet” written by local award-winning authors Patricia and Fredrick McKissack. This children’s biography contains the perfect mix of information, story, and photographs as we learn about Langston Hughes’ family, travels, and writings.

--Teresa R., Sachs